James Charles McShane

James C. McShane 1945-2017

Dr. James "Jim" C. McShane passed away April 8 at his home in Columbine Valley, Colo. surrounded by his loving family after a valiant fight against cancer.

He was born in Cheyenne March 27, 1945, sharing the birth date with his father. Jim attended Cheyenne Central High School, graduating in 1963. He graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1967 with degrees in physiology and chemistry, later earning a master's degree in physiology from the University of Wyoming. Jim pursued graduate studies at the University of Arizona Medical School, then he received both a master's and a doctorate in public health from Loma Linda University (Calif .), with a focus on emergency medicine and preventive care.

After graduation Jim and GiGi relocated to Denver, where he became the director of Colorado's Division of Emergency Medical Services, at which time he was the youngest state director in the nation. Under his direction, Colorado implemented a wide range of legislative programs to enhance the delivery of emergency care to critically ill patients in the state. He later joined the management team of Presbyterian/St. Luke's Medical Center (now HealthONE) to oversee EMS, ambulatory services, and the development of AirLife. Jim served as president of Integrated Medical Campus, Inc., a national healthcare consulting group for both strategic planning and development of medical facilities, overseeing both national and international engagements.

Dr. McShane received a number of professional, honorary academic and research awards throughout his career. He was a founding member of the American Trauma Society, a member of the American Burn Association, an advisory member of the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma and held a number of positions within the American Public Health Association and other Colorado public health organizations.

A loving and devoted family man, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends at his cabin in Harriman, a place he relaxed. He was proud of maintaining the beauty of the property. Jim enjoyed Lionel model trains, studying history of American railroads, with the Union Pacific being his favorite, taking train trips as well as world travel.  He also loved Cheyenne Frontier Days, attending every July with his family. But he was more than just a spectator at Frontier Days, serving on the Old West Museum Board of Directors as Treasurer, then President.  He also volunteered generously to other organizations, including 16 years for the Town of Columbine Valley, Colorado; as a trustee, then mayor.

Jim is survived by his wife of 45 years, Georgiana "GiGi" Gonzalez McShane, whom he married in San Diego, Calif. He is the proud father of daughter, Kelly McShane Hoke and son, Michael McShane of Littleton, Colo. Jim's sister Mary Ann Martin lives in Sun City, Ariz. He was preceded by his parents, Dr. Kenneth L. and Della, and brother, Robert Allen McShane.

May Jim rest in peace during his eternal journey.

Memorials suggested to Friends of AirLife, Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum or DeMolay International Carl E. Galt Chapter. Please see the links below to make a memorial donation in Jim's honor. 

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